Lens Assembly Optical Path Changing Unit Hinge Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing camera modules in smartphones face challenges with optical zoom functionality, leading to increased module height and protrusion, complex prism tilting structures that complicate manufacturing, increase costs, and make the module prone to damage.
Innovation Solution
A lens assembly with a base, lens unit, optical path changing unit, and drive units that include a prism support and hinge member for tiltable movement, utilizing a synthetic resin hinge member for elasticity and damping bonds for stability, allowing for easy assembly and reduced manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a prism is applied to the camera module to prevent protrusion, then the camera module can be disposed along the length or width direction, but the structure for tilting the prism becomes very complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is divided into functionally independent sub-assemblies: the lens unit assembly, the optical path changing unit with prism, and the image sensor assembly. Each sub-assembly can be optimized independently, with the prism tilting mechanism isolated to only handle image stabilization without interfering with other functions.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of tilting the entire camera module or using a complex mechanism to tilt the prism while maintaining other functions, the invention fixes the prism in position and uses a simplified hinge mechanism that allows the prism to tilt only for image stabilization purposes, separating the stabilization function from the overall module orientation.
2Reliability
If a complex prism tilting structure is used for optical image stabilizing, then optical stabilization is achieved, but the assembling property is remarkably low and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge member integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides the tilting mechanism for image stabilization, acts as a structural support for the prism, and includes positioning features for precise alignment. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate parts and assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge member is designed with self-positioning features such as positioning protrusions and grooves that automatically align the prism with the optical axis during assembly, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures or specialized assembly equipment. The structure guides itself into the correct position.
3Reliability
If a complex prism tilting structure is used, then optical image stabilizing is achieved, but maintenance becomes not easy
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is divided into functionally independent sub-assemblies that can be accessed and serviced separately. The optical path changing unit with the prism and hinge mechanism can be independently removed and maintained without disassembling the entire camera module, facilitating easier repairs.
4Reliability
If a complex prism tilting structure is used, then optical image stabilizing is achieved, but the camera module is easily damaged when shock is added
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge member is designed with inherent shock-absorbing characteristics through its geometry and material selection, providing cushioning against external shocks before they can reach and damage the fragile prism. The structure anticipates potential shocks and mitigates them in advance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a compact, reliable, and cost-effective camera module with improved optical image stabilization and reduced risk of damage, while maintaining optical zoom functionality without excessive protrusion.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a synthetic resin hinge member for elasticity and damping bonds for stability
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a synthetic resin hinge member for elasticity and damping bonds for stability
Implementation Method 3
a prism coupled to a fixing portion formed in front of the prism support
Implementation Method 4
a prism coupled to a fixing portion formed in front of the prism support
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a lens assembly. The disclosed lens assembly comprises: a base; a lens unit which is disposed on one side inside the base and moves forward or rearward in the length-wise direction of the base; an optical path changing unit which is disposed on the other side inside the base, and has a portion fixed to the base and the other portion disposed to be movable inside the base; an auto focusing (AF) drive unit that moves the lens unit forward or rearward; and first and second optical image stabilizing (OIS) drive units that move the optical path changing unit in a tiltable posture.